The QHY16803A cameras is large format astronomical CCD cameras using the well-known 16 Megapixel KAF-16803. The image area is just over 36mm x 36mm for both sensors. The camera use an even-illumination mechanical shutter for photometric quality darks and flats.
Built-In CFW
7-Position 50mm Square Filters
This model has a seven position built-in motorized filter wheel that holds 50mm x 50mm square filters needed for this sized CCD.
This camera uses a mechanical shutter that has a butterfly shape. The shutter is directly driven by a motor with no other moving parts. The working life is almost unlimited. The shutter has two sides that block light and open spaces in between. The fan shape of the blades create even-illumination when opening, and even-darkness when closing for dark frames. This feature is of great benefit when taking flat frames or making photometric observations.
All-in-One Design
The QHY16803A belongs to the QHYCCD "A" Series camera family. "A" stands for "ALL-IN-ONE". The cameras include a built-in filter wheel and supports the large size QHYOAG. The filter wheel has 7 positions for 50mm square filters. The camera also has an internal USB2.0 HUB that provides two USB host port and a USB to dual RS232 converter. A guiding camera, mount and focuser can be connected directly to the camera. Only a single USB cable is needed to control all the peripherals.
The KAF−16803 image sensor is a redesigned version of the popular KAF−16801 image sensor (4096 (H) × 4096 (V) with enhancements that specifically target the needs of high performance applications. Improvements include enhanced quantum efficiency for improved DQE at higher spatial frequencies, lower noise for improved contrast in areas of high density, and anti-blooming protection to prevent image bleed from over exposure in regions outside the area of interest. The sensor utilizes the TRUESENSE Transparent Gate Electrode to improve sensitivity compared to the use of a standard front side illuminated polysilicon electrode, as well as microlenses to maximize light sensitivity. When combined with large imaging area and small pixel size, the KAF−16803 provides the sensitivity, resolution and contrast necessary for high quality digital astro-images.
The 2-stage TE cooling reduces the temperature of the CCD chip -45 degrees C from ambient, resulting in very low dark current noise and a clean image even in long exposures.
The internal USB2.0 HUB makes attaching peripherals easy, without the need to run separate cables back to the computer for each one. There are two USB host ports and a USB to dual RS232 converter. A guiding camera, mount and focuser can be connected directly to the camera. Only a single USB cable is needed to control all the peripherals.
The QHY16803A camera includes a mechanical shutter for automatically capturing dark frames.